Now here is an interesting map of Shanghai's Metro lines. It covers all the existing Metro lines and the ones currently under construction in Shanghai, but what makes it unique is the fact that it lists the square meter (sqm) price for apartments in the area.
Click on map to get a bigger image.
So looking at the map, you will see a number near all the Metro stations. This number is the sqm price of apartments in that district near to the Metro.
The closer you are to the Metro station and the closer that Metro station is to South Huangpi Lu station, the higher the price of the apartment (as a general rule).
Our apartment is on line 8 (the blue line) right next to the Laoximen St. station which is currently under construction. It says the sqm price for our area is 23,000RMB. Our apartment is about 158sqm, so that means our apartment would be valued at about 3,634,000RMB (A$605,000 - US$454,000).
Our rent is 6,800RMB per month (A$1,133 - US$850) which would mean that there is a yield of only 2.25% based on this valuation. I guess thats why investors are in it for capital growth and not rental yields - and also why the government is keen to cool property in Shanghai.
Housing affordability in Shanghai will continue to be an issue for many years to come.
I thought it would be a good idea to share what camera gear I use. I use a Canon EOS500D with EF 28-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS USM zoom lens and EF 50mm f/1.8II. 
Cool map. Where did you find it?
Posted by: Dan | 07 August 2006 at 10:49 AM
Hi Dan,
They come from a friend who got it sent by another friend from a work mate of his.
They are all asking the `where did it come from' question up the line, and I hope to have an answer - one day!
Posted by: Brad | 08 August 2006 at 03:33 PM
Hello, will you please advise me as to living standards in Shang Hai. i've been offered a job in shang hai teaching design and i am considering it very seriously. my basic gross salary at the commencement of employment will be RMB 22,000 a month. Individual income tax will be borne by me, i believe at 20%, and deducted in the gross salary.
i was wondering if you feel this is a good salary and whether i will find a place to live within reach?
thanks,
cat.
Posted by: cat | 22 August 2006 at 02:06 AM